The Eighth Annual Madison Hip Hop award will take place this Saturday with a new location, the Majestic Theater, and a new energy, says to Urban Community Arts Network, Vice President Mark “ShaH” Evans.
“I think this year, maybe because of the local and national political climate regarding education and the justice system, this just feels like it’s needed,” Evans told Madison365. “I’m not saying in previous years this wasn’t needed but this year it feels we need to highlight people and acknowledge Hip Hop.”
The award show will feature performances from past awardees and artists who well-represent the city, such as Ted Park who is one of the first artists from Madison to get a deal the way he has, according to Evans.
Award presenters will also be prominent community members with Hip Hop ties like YWCA CEO Vanessa McDowell, who is also a DJ and guitarist.
“People hear that name and they don’t even know that she’s a DJ,” said Evans.
Other award presenters include Capital City Hues editor and publisher Jonathan Grambling and Program Director of Crush Sports Academy Dan Hawk.
Artists award categories include song of the year, video of the year and artist of the year, as well as DJ and promoter of the year.
In addition to artist awards the show will honor community members who have made an impact through Hip Hop. Both Will Green, creator of Mentor Positive, Inc and Off the Block Salsa and Sashe Mishur, who founded a break dancing group for underserved teens at the East Madison Community Center will be honored with Most Influential awards during the show. Ja’Mel A Ware will receive a 608 Spotlight award for creating Intellectual Ratchet.
The show will be hosted by local comedian Antoine McNeail and begin at 7pm. Tickets are $7 in advanced at the Majestic Theater box office or $10 at the door
“When it comes to Madison Hip Hop artist always feel like they have to leave Madison to be a success because of the lack of shows and support here, but the fact that we’re going on our 8th year says something and for us that is a win,” Evans said. “Nothing in Madison has lasted this long in regards to Hip Hop.”
